Fraser: Thulani Serero has the potential to make the game for Vitesse

Serero's move has rejuvenated the playmaker, and he is set for a big 2017/2018 campaign

After several years at Dutch giant’s Ajax Amsterdam, Thulani Serero left the club in search of greener pastures.

Serero has found first-team football difficult to come by over recent seasons despite beginning his tenure promisingly. But following his move to Vitesse Arnhem, the Bafana Bafana international seems to be rejuvenated, and is set for an important role at his new club.

"Serero is a controlling player and good in possession. He has the potential to make the game‚" Vitesse coach Henk Fraser told Dutch publication Omroep Gelderland.

Meanwhile, Serero is looking forward to getting his career back on track.

"I want to be on the ball‚” Serero said.

“I also see myself as a leader. I understand that Fraser wants the play to go through me and I feel comfortable with that. But in the end‚ we have to play football as a team and win as a team. "

The 27-year-old also sees similarities between his former team Ajax and Vitas.

"Both clubs want to play attacking football and the difference really is not as big as people think. It is mainly about the mentality of players," he said.

At Vitesse, Serero will once again have the opportunity to showcase his talents on the European stage, and he has set his sights on a strong Europa League run.

"You do not necessarily need European experience to survive in Europe. It's all about believing … believing that you can win. If you do step on the field‚ everyone has the same faith‚ not thinking‚ oh no‚ this is a great team‚ it is difficult to win here. If we all have the same faith‚ anything is possible,” Serero expressed.

"We should finish higher in the league than last year. I also want to survive the group stages [of the Europa League]‚ win the [pre-season] Johan Cruyff Shield again [against league champions Feyenoord] and win the Dutch Cup. Each one is a goal. And yes‚ they can be reached with Vitesse," Serero added.

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Serero also admitted sadness over his former teammate Abdelhak Nouri, who was diagnosed with severe brain damage after his heart reportedly stopped during a pre-season encounter.

"I am very shocked by the news. He is a very good friend of mine. He was one of the first who wished me luck when I moved to Vitesse‚" Serero concluded.